Buildings currently account for 40% of energy use
in most countries, putting them among the largest
end-use sectors. The International Energy Agency
(IEA) has identified the building sector as one of
the most cost-effective sectors for reducing energy
consumption, with estimated possible energy savings
of 1,509 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) by
2050. Moreover, by reducing overall energy demand,
improving energy efficiency in buildings can
significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
from the building sector, translating to possible
mitigation of 12.6 gigatonnes (Gt) of CO2 emissions
by 2050 (IEA, 2010).

The Policy Pathway series aims to guide policy
makers and relevant stakeholders on the essential
steps in implementing policies that reflect the
IEA 25 Energy Efficiency Recommendations.
This specific pathway focuses on best practice
in implementing building energy certification
programmes.